Rallying the troops for medals

Veterans of the Armed Forces have only days left to step forward to receive a special badge in recognition of their service.

An event will be hosted by North Kesteven District Council on Friday, June 24, the eve of National Armed Forces Day, to honour residents living in the district who have given services to the Armed Forces.

Steve Evans of South Rauceby, NKDC's own Facilities Officer, who served with the RAF from 1975 to 2004. EMN-160517-140203001

While most veterans now receive the Veterans’ Badge on leaving service, and the council has awarded more than 300 over the past decade, there are still residents whose dedication and commitment has not been formally recognised in this way.

The badge presentation will be central to the annual Veterans’ Evening, which is unique within the region, bringing together a programme of musical nostalgia, a buffet dinner and poignant readings to celebrate and commemorate the contribution made to our society by our Armed Forces past, present and future.

The broader public is welcome to buy tickets at £10 to attend in celebration and commemoration.

To buy tickets and to request a badge – for yourself or someone you know – contact Debbie Scott in the council’s Community Initiatives Team on 01529 414155, email: Debbie_scott@n-kesteven.gov.uk or call in to the NKDC offices at Kesteven Street, Sleaford.

Deadline to apply for badges is Tuesday, May 31; for tickets Monday, June 13.

Limited information is required, including Service Number, date of birth and brief service history.

Wider Armed Forces Week celebrations include a flag raising ceremony at NKDC on Monday, June 20, at 10am for 10.30am, to which the public, schools, and Armed Forces personnel are invited.

There has been a children’s poster design competition, and traders are encouraged to decorate their shop windows in a theme demonstrating support for the Armed Forces working together as well as promotion of any discounts offered by businesses to members of the Armed Forces and veterans. Window designs should reflect all three major services – Army, Navy and Air Force – serving together.